Modern Amulets for a New Generation: Button Blessings Bridges Past and Present

Taiwanese designer Chih-Chiao Yu brings cultural symbolism into daily life with her award-winning project Button Blessings - Print Design, which received the Diamond Prize at the Future Art & Design Award UK 2025 Summer Season.

Rooted in visual communication and inspired by Taiwan’s temple culture, the project asks: How can traditional beliefs remain close to our hearts in a modern world? Her answer takes shape in the form of wearable “amulet buttons” — each one minimal, tactile, symbolic.

With careful abstraction of deity imagery, warm materials like wood and yarn, and a profound respect for spiritual heritage, these designs invite reflection, intimacy, and cultural connection — all while fitting seamlessly into contemporary life.

"I wanted to create something that feels sacred but not distant — design that carries warmth, meaning, and the stories we often forget to tell," Yu shares. From sacred temple symbols to quiet design statements, Button Blessings is not only an object — it’s a conversation between generations.

1. Could you let us know a bit more about yourself and what inspired you to pursue a career in creative / art / design?

I’m a designer from Taiwan with a background in visual communication design. Growing up in a culturally rich environment, I’ve always been fascinated by the intersection of tradition and modern life. My passion for design started with a love for storytelling—how design can speak to people, carry emotions, and preserve values. I see design as a medium to connect generations, cultures, and ideas, which continues to inspire my creative journey.

2. What was the initial inspiration behind this project? Was there a specific idea, moment, or question that sparked its development?

The project started with a simple question: how can we reconnect young people with temple culture in a way that feels relevant today? In Taiwan, many young people are gradually becoming distant from spiritual practices. I wanted to find a way to reinterpret these traditions with warmth, beauty, and accessibility—leading to the idea of transforming buttons, which are worn close to the heart, into contemporary amulets that symbolize connection and protection.

3. What was the most exciting or challenging part of creating the work?

The most exciting part was translating intangible beliefs into tangible, touchable design. Balancing the sacred with the modern required deep research, sensitivity, and respect. The biggest challenge was simplifying complex religious imagery into minimalist forms while preserving their symbolic essence. Every material, curve, and texture had to be intentional and meaningful.

4. What was your approach to reimagining traditional deity imagery into a modern, minimalist style?

I started by identifying the core symbolism of each deity—what they represent emotionally and culturally. From there, I abstracted their traditional visual elements into clean, geometric forms. I chose warm, tactile materials like wood and yarn to retain a sense of ritual and familiarity. The key was to design with reverence, but also with contemporary clarity, making the deities feel present and approachable in daily life.

5. How was your experience taking part in the Future Art & Design Award UK?

It has been a truly rewarding experience. Being recognized by an international platform that values both creativity and cultural relevance has been incredibly encouraging. I appreciate the opportunity to share my work with a wider audience, and I’m grateful for the support and exposure the award has provided.